More MLB: Scoreboard | Standings | Probable Pitchers | Sortable Stats | Odds
Red Sox manager John Farrell announced on Sunday that right-hander Clay Buchholz has been scratched from Monday's start against the Phillies with irritation in his right AC joint, near the shoulder. Alfredo Aceves will get the ball instead.
Buchholz, 28, downplayed the injury, saying he could have pitched if this were September or if the game were more important. The injury originally happened when he slept on his shoulder awkwardly a few days ago. Farrell stressed the move to scratch Buchholz from his turn in the rotation was precautionary.
In 10 starts this year, Buchholz has gone 7-0 with a league-leading 1.73 ERA. He also owns career-best rates in home runs (0.2 HR/9), hits allowed (6.1 H/9) and strikeouts (9.0 K/9). Buchholz is tentatively scheduled to pitch later in the week.
Aceves, 30, has posted an 8.20 ERA in 18 2/3 innings spread across three starts and three relief appearances this season. He went 2-1 with a 3.13 ERA in four starts for Triple-A Pawtucket after being sent down last month.
With Franklin Morales expected to come off the DL on Tuesday, it seems likely Aceves will be sent down following Monday's start so the fresh arm can be added to the bullpen.
